Brief Overview of ἐπιγινώσκω (Strong’s G1921: epiginōskō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies offers invaluable insights into the original meanings and nuances of the New Testament text. The word ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō), Strong’s G1921, is particularly significant because it often involves a deeper, more precise form of knowledge or recognition. Its use in the New Testament and ancient Greek literature enriches our comprehension of themes such as spiritual discernment, relational knowledge, and divine understanding.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō) [eh-pee-gee-NOS-ko]
• Etymology Root Words: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon, over”) and γινώσκω (ginōskō, “to know, understand, recognize”).
• Part of Speech: Verb. This is a compound verb that adds intensity or depth to the basic idea of “knowing.”
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To know thoroughly or accurately.
• To recognize or become fully acquainted with.
• To discern or perceive with clarity.
• To acknowledge or ascertain.

Similar Words: Other related Greek words include γινώσκω (ginōskō) [gee-NOS-ko], meaning “to know” in a general sense, and οἶδα (oida) [OY-dah], which often implies knowledge derived from observation or intuition. ἐπιγινώσκω differs as it conveys a more profound or intensive understanding, often involving a personal or relational aspect.

Further Insights: The compound nature of ἐπιγινώσκω suggests a heightened or complete form of knowledge, where the prefix “ἐπι-” (epi-) intensifies the act of knowing. This often involves recognition after prior knowledge or deeper acquaintance. This verb is typically in the present or aorist tense in the New Testament, reflecting an ongoing or completed action.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Emphasizes the depth of perception in ἐπιγινώσκω, often translated as “to recognize, perceive, or know fully.” It suggests a relational understanding, where one not only knows facts but also grasps their significance.
• Thayers: Highlights the term’s use in distinguishing between general knowledge (ginōskō) and specific recognition or acknowledgment (epiginōskō), often in the context of spiritual insight or divine revelation.
• Vines: Points to the usage of ἐπιγινώσκω in recognizing or discerning both in a literal sense (seeing and understanding) and a metaphorical sense (spiritual recognition).
• LSJ: Notes its classical use for coming to know or understand thoroughly, distinguishing this form of knowledge from other types. It was often used in judicial contexts to mean recognizing or discerning facts clearly.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines it as “to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with.” It highlights its use in contexts where knowledge is acquired through personal experience or discernment.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 1:4: “…so that you may know (ἐπιγινώσκῃς) the certainty of the things you have been taught.”
• 1 Corinthians 13:12: “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know (γινώσκω) in part; but then shall I know (ἐπιγινώσκω) even as also I am known.”
• Matthew 11:27: “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows (ἐπιγινώσκει) the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιγινώσκω (G1921)

The word ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō) is a powerful Greek term found in both Biblical and classical Greek literature. It conveys a profound level of knowledge or recognition, often going beyond mere cognitive understanding to encompass relational and experiential knowledge. This word’s nuanced use in the New Testament—especially in contexts of spiritual discernment—underscores its importance in Biblical studies. Its use in classical literature further highlights its broader cultural significance.

Did You Know?

The prefix “ἐπι-” (epi-) in Greek not only intensifies the meaning of verbs but often signifies an ‘upon’ action, like ‘building upon’ a foundation. In the case of ἐπιγινώσκω, it can be seen as “knowing upon knowing,” suggesting a depth of understanding that transcends surface-level knowledge.